One local teacher is taking her love for running from the pavement to the classroom.

Kerry Macaulay teaches sixth grade at Chavez Elementary. 

For over 20 years she has implemented a running program in her classroom.  

"But I've always wanted to do a community event with my students," said Macaulay.

The Bakersfield Marathon gives them the opportunity to do just that. 

Mrs. Macaulay challenges her students to run the distance of a full marathon throughout the course of 7 weeks. 

"There's that real personal self-fulfillment, accomplishment. Just going out and doing something to challenge yourself," said Macaulay. 

But her students are learning about more than just running. 

Peter Parra says training for the marathon has taught him about goal-setting.

"If I pass up someone I'll pat them on the back and say you're doing a good job," said Aaron Ortiz. 

10 students in Mrs. Macaulay's class that will run the 13-mile half marathon this Sunday at the Bakersfield Marathon.

"At first I was kind of hesitant about it but after my teacher's running program I'm actually really excited about it," said Tobie Le.

The encouragement Tobie and her fellow classmates from Mrs. Macaulay has helped motivate them to challenge themselves. 

Not only is she inspiring her students, but their families as well.

Mrs. Macaulay said several relatives of her students will also join them on the marathon route. 

Tobie said before joining Mrs. Macaulay's running program she never imagined she would be running a marathon. 

"I'm so thank for it because I probably wouldn't be able to do it without her," said Tobie.